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August 13, 2003 Contact: Bonnie Widerburg (503) 731-4180 Technical contact: Richard Leiker (503) 731-4025 Alert to parents: toy necklace contains lead, poses health risk A Deschutes County child was recently hospitalized with lead poisoning after swallowing a small medallion necklace purchased from a toy-vending machine, according to public health officials in the Deschutes County Health Department and the state Department of Human Services (DHS). "Fortunately the child has been treated and is recovering," said Michael Heumann, epidemiologist in DHS. "But it’s important for parents to know that these small toys are out there, available to their children, and that they pose a serious health hazard."The child’s lead level was more than 10 times the level of concern for children, and laboratory tests showed the medallion necklace contained 388,000 ppm (parts per million) or 39 percent lead, according to Heumann. Heumann said the medallions pose several risks: Children can potentially swallow one of the small medallions, which presents both a physical hazard and lead exposure hazard; and they can be also exposed to lead by putting the medallion in their mouths or by handling the medallion and then putting their hands in their mouths." The medallion of concern is round, approximately 7/8 inch in diameter, grey in color, with a symbol on one side. Other similar medallions hang on a black cord and have assorted symbols. They come in plastic capsules from vending machines that offer a mixed toy selection. Photos of the medallions are on the Web. "We have identified one supplier of these medallions and they have agreed to voluntarily stop all further sales of the product to distributors, but it is possible the necklaces may still be available through other distributors and vendors," Heumann said. "Toy vending machines can be found at restaurants, grocery stores, laundromats and other retail businesses that children visit." Heumann said DHS has notified the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission about the medallions. Lead can harm anyone who swallows lead-containing products or breathes lead dust, and even small amounts can be harmful. It is especially dangerous to children because it can slow growth and development. Exposure to lead paint dust from older homes is the most common cause of lead poisoning, but lead or materials containing lead may be found in other products, according to Heumann. Heumann recommends several resources for parents:  If your child swallows any metal object, immediately call the Oregon Poison Center at (800) 222-1222. Check your child’s toy jewelry. If you find the child has a toy medallion as described above, discard it in the household trash and thoroughly wash your hands after handling. Or, you may call the statewide toll-free household hazardous waste number at (800) 732-9253 to find the location of a disposal site in your area. The Oregon Leadline, (800) 368-5060, is a free telephone information service for parents and others who are concerned about lead hazards in their home and want to know how to make their home lead-safe. |
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